Puberty
Attainment of puberty is a process not a single event.
- As the gilt matures and becomes older, the hypothalamus begins to mature and it releases GnRH. GnRH stimulates the release of LH and FSH from the pituitary gland, which circulates to the ovaries and stimulates follicular growth and secretion of estradiol. Estradiol further stimulates the hypothalamus. When this system is sufficiently mature(usually when the gilt is about 6 to 7 months of age) the first estrus occurs.